Pavan says it’s not easy for the new partners

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Sarah Pavan gets down to dig at the Poreč Major. Photocredit: Tomislav Moze.

The dramatic break-up of Sarah Pavan and Heather Bansley has meant both players have hit the headlines – but spare a thought for the two players joining new teams for this week’s Swatch World Tour Finals in Toronto.

They’re the words of Pavan, who pairs up with Melissa Humana-Paredes ahead of tonight’s country quota clash at Polson Pier to decide which Canadian team advances to the main draw.

“It’s got to be tough for both players,” Sarah told us after she and Melissa completed training on Center Court. “All of the attention this break-up has caused and then coming in as new partners…I can’t imagine the pressure or stress they must be under having to step into these roles.

“It’s not an ideal situation but I think Mel’s handled it really well. She’s always very positive and professional so she’s done a really good job.”

With such an important decision to make after the break-up with Bansley, Pavan believes she has picked the perfect partner.

“I like a lot of things about her,” Sarah smiled. “Mel is a great student of the game. The way she understands it – I mean she’s been playing the game since she was a child and you can tell.

“She’s got a lot of knowledge and has great instincts for the game and I love that. She’s got such great ball control and it’s really fun to be on the court with her. She’s young but she’s calm and confident and that’s another thing I like.

“But I don’t expect her to be perfect and I don’t expect her to have all the answers on the first day. As long as she practices and puts her best in every day and seeks to improve, that’s all I can ask. And if she is committed to doing that she will naturally become a better player.”

So how will Melissa and Brandie fare on Center Court at 5pm tonight? There’s only one way to find out! Watch the action for free inside the Center Court at Polson Pier or on our live stream on our website!